Since the SR-U System can "hook-on" directly to the breaker faceplate rather than requiring any type of permanent mounting, there is no need for modifications to the switchgear design, which typically require nuclear facilities to prepare a design change package describing the modification process and hardware for evaluation, and then perform physical testing and acceptance of the change through post-modification testing procedures.

Remote Solutions, LLC, exhibiting at the Electrical Power Research Institute (EPRI) Circuit Breaker Users Group (CBUG) Conference, today announced a version of the Safe-T-Rack® (STR®) SR-U Battery-powered Remote Racking System specifically intended for the nuclear power industry. Compatible with ITE K600-K2000 circuit breakers, this lightweight and portable system helps ensure compliance with evolving arc flash mitigation regulations. Its unique “No Mod” design does not require installation modifications to the cubicle or breaker, and thus eliminates the need for utilities to generate costly design change documentation and post-modification testing of OE equipment.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes hazards associated with arc flash incidents as defined in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E standard. An arc flash is part of an arc fault, a type of electrical explosion that results from a low-impedance connection to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system. Experience has shown that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has limited effectiveness in safeguarding workers from arc flashes during operation and racking of switchgear equipment commonly used at power plants, electrical transmission & distribution facilities, mining operations, refineries and petrochemical plants, and other industrial and commercial sites.

Application of an effective remote racking system increases distance from the source of the arc fault to the operator and eliminates manual contact while breakers are being inserted or removed.

Safe-T-Rack® is a fully automated, American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-tested tool that has redefined techniques for circuit breaker remote racking and control. The latest addition to the STR® line, the SR-U Battery-powered Remote Racking System, employs a Mil-Spec design and robust self-diagnostic capabilities. The system offers best-in-class features such as: rechargeable 28V battery powered for international use, universal handheld controller and drive unit, quick-change tool coupling, smart drive bracket design, and an endlessly expandable data-bus design. The unit includes a standard 50-foot cable with optional extensions.

According to Remote Solutions President Bob Stevenson, the portable SR-U Battery-powered Remote Racking System can “hook-on” directly to the breaker faceplate rather than requiring any type of permanent mounting. As such, there is no need for modifications to the switchgear design, which typically require nuclear facilities to prepare a design change package describing the modification process and hardware for evaluation, and then perform physical testing and acceptance of the change through post-modification testing procedures.

“Our SR-U system provides a cost-effective solution for demanding circuit breaker racking applications in the nuclear power industry,” said Stevenson. “The system increases operator distance from the breaker, allows racking in and out of a cubicle, minimizes damage from mechanical racking failures, and integrates remote operation of breaker open/close functions,” said Stevenson. “Users no longer have to worry about de-coupling or jamming the breaker into its cubicle, requiring that the bus be de-energized to safely remove and repair the equipment.”

Remote Solutions specifically developed the Safe-T-Rack(r) product family to provide users of low-, medium-, and high-voltage circuit breakers with a comprehensive alternative to arc flash protection garments. Safe-T-Rack® systems are engineered to easily integrate with original equipment switchgear and allow equipment operators to distance themselves from an arc flash incident. This patented technology revolutionizes the way circuit breakers, motor starters, loadbreak switches, vault switches, network switches and LTCs are racked in/out of service and are charged, closed and opened.

Established in 2001, Remote Solutions, LLC has proudly built the patented Safe-T-Rack® systems and accessories in the USA. They are the only company solely dedicated to the design, manufacture and performance testing of remote racking systems and accessories for circuit breakers, motor starters, loadbreak switches, vault switches, network switches and LTCs. The engineering, research and development departments of Remote Solutions, LLC work closely with resellers and end-users to meet their specific needs and to provide the highest quality line of switchgear-based remote racking and switching products available.